As you begin your next step in your career, you will be faced with an exciting new challenge: your very first interview as a published author! You may be faced with feelings of nervousness or anxiety, and we want to help you change those emotions into feelings of confidence and excitement. Here are 10 Tips for your first interview as a published author:
1. RELAX
Any interview, especially your first as a published author, can muster feelings of unease and anxiety. To alleviate these feelings, try to do activities that promote your own relaxation. Everyone relaxes in a different way (i.e. working out, guided meditations, art, music), but no matter how you relax—it is important that you do! Entering your first interview in a relaxed state will help you think more clearly, answer questions with ease, and feel better about the whole situation.
2. BE OPEN AND HONEST
You have worked so hard to get to this point. Now let’s think about your readers. People want to read your book, and they want to know your thoughts on what you wrote. Be honest about how you feel about your work. Did writing certain scenes make you emotional? Or was there a scene you were especially excited to write?
3. EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED
The world is moving so quickly, and sometimes it is difficult to keep up with the hot topics. Preparing for your interview should include some research on hot topics surrounding the themes of your work. It is better to be prepared for the unexpected than not, so even if you are not asked about these topics, at least you came ready with answers in your arsenal.
4. TALK ABOUT YOUR WRITING STYLE AND CRAFT
Do not be afraid to reflect on your motivations for writing. People like to see that you worked hard to create a masterpiece, and it shows how dedicated you are to your work. Have answers prepared not only about your work but also about your craft. An author’s writing craft is one of the largest questions an author is asked about in an interview.
5. HYDRATE
This one seems obvious, but hydrating is very important before any interview. Hydration has been proven to keep individuals more alert. It will also help you feel physically and mentally better before, during, and after your interview.
6. KEEP THEM WANTING MORE
If you already have a sequel or another piece planned/in the works, do not be afraid to keep them wanting more. This interview is not just about showcasing your work, it is also about showcasing you. Talking about what’s next is a good way to keep an audience engaged in what you have to say.
7. BE YOURSELF
Let your guard down. When nerves are running high, it is natural for us to tense up and guard who we truly are. Remember that coming off as friendly and authentic can mean more people will want to work with or interview you, and that means more promotion and publicity for your work.
8. ELIMNATE UHMS AND LIKES
During an interview, be thoughtful about your responses before replying. Speaking in smooth sentences and omitting words such as “uhm” or “like” will make what you are saying sound stronger. Remember: thinking about what you are going to say before you say it is the best way to avoid misunderstandings. A big reason people use words such as “uhm” or “like” when answering questions is because silence makes them uncomfortable, but moments of silence are okay. You are allowed time to think about your answers.
9. PROJECT CONFIDENCE
Now is the time to own your talent. You worked hard, and now you are in your first interview. Do not be shy about how great you are. If you are proud of your writing style, talk about why. If you feel you can impart advice to amateur writers, say it. Do not be shy about your thoughts and feelings; ultimately this interview is for you, and about you.
10. PROMOTE AND PUBLICIZE
This interview is either because of your work or because you are an expert in the subject that is featured in your work, and you should flaunt that work and expertise as much as possible. Work your book into conversation, talk about it so other people want to read it. Promoting and publicizing your work during your interview can increase not only the sales of your book, but the market for it in other stores.
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